The Montgomery area has completed its winter high school sports season, highlighted by the AHSAA state championships. Noteworthy performances were observed across boys and girls basketball, wrestling, and bowling, leading to recognition of standout athletes. The Montgomery Advertiser is inviting readers to vote for the top athlete from a selection of 15 finalists. Voting is open until noon on March 24. Key candidates include Braden Gordon, Natalie Barton, and Land Bell, who achieved remarkable feats during the season.

By the Numbers
  • Braden Gordon scored over 470 points and nearly 200 rebounds during the season.
  • Natalie Barton scored over 500 points and tallied over 180 assists, achieving 2,000 career points in the state title game.
  • Maliyah Meeks excelled with over 700 points and 400 rebounds.
Yes, But

While many athletes have shone brightly this season, there are discussions about equity in recognition across different sports. Some argue that niche sports often receive less media attention despite exceptional performances.

State of Play
  • The voting process for the 'Winter Wonder' is currently live, allowing community involvement in recognizing athlete accomplishments.
  • A variety of sports saw unprecedented levels of participation and competition this winter, showcasing local talent.
What's Next

As voting concludes on March 24, the results will likely spotlight local sports achievements and could influence future athlete recruitment in these programs. The attention may also increase support for high school sports in the region.

Bottom Line

The winter sports season in Montgomery has revealed extraordinary talent among high school athletes, and community engagement through voting is essential to celebrate their achievements. Recognizing these individuals can foster greater support for high school sports and inspire future athletes.